When you first start to look at using Twitter as a communication and marketing platform it is important to verify that the tool is going to be worth your (precious) time. The first thing that should be done before implementing Twitter is to actually search and test the tool before adding it into your overall marketing strategy.
The listening and monitoring phase of social media is extremely important to your social media mix. By using tools like Twitter Search you can decipher whether or not to use this wonderful communication medium.
Three Things to Look for When Monitoring Twitter
1. Current and Potential Clients - When searching on Twitter it is important to figure out whether or not potential clients are using the tool. Search for keywords associated with the different companies you work for (or would like to have as clients).
Example: If you are a small business lawyer it is important to search for terms associated with your industry. An easy way to pinpoint keywords is to look at your search engine optimization strategy. It could be “forming an llc” or “collections” or “small business legal help.”
It is also important to find out whether or not your current clients are using the tool. If they are… there is a good chance other people are as well.
2. Competitors – This should be self explanatory… Twitter can be a great tool for market and competitive research. If your competitors are using Twitter effectively it is probably a tool you should be using in your marketing and communications strategy.
Search the company names of your competitors (as well as the location you are serving).
3. Content about your industry - If content is being shared about your industry it is important that you voice your opinion about certain matters.
Example : #AgChat is a great example of farmers and agriculture professionals using Twitter to voice their concerns over certain ag matters.
Remember when you are searching on Twitter that it is important to search in a conversational tone… as well as using keywords. Twitter is a conversation based platform and individuals maybe using different words when speaking about your services.
If you run across any of the three forms of content listed above… it is important that you start looking at Twitter as a communication tool for your company.
Remember to check out Twitter Marketing for Dummies if you are needing help with Twitter!
Nice round up on Twitter for business. This is a great place to start for business owners. I find the search that you're talking about to sometimes be effective and other times not be worth my time. Depending on the search, it can take up a lot of time too.